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Howell police warn TikTokers to avoid abandoned Xscape theater

Source: NJ 101.5 · Jul 30, 2026, 5:09 PM

AI-assisted briefing from the publisher’s public headline and excerpt — not original reporting. How we write briefings

Abandoned Xscape movie theater on Route 9 in Howell

The shuttered Xscape movie theater on Route 9 in Howell has become an increasingly popular destination for trespassers, particularly those seeking content for social media platforms like TikTok.

Howell police are alerting parents and the community about the real dangers lurking inside the abandoned building, where structural hazards, unstable flooring, and other hazards pose serious risks to anyone entering.

The warning comes as the deteriorating venue continues to attract curious visitors despite its closure and "no trespassing" status.

Key points

  • Abandoned Xscape theater on Route 9 in Howell has become a trespassing hotspot, partly driven by TikTok trends
  • Howell police are warning parents about genuine safety hazards inside the deteriorated building
  • The theater poses risks including structural damage, unstable flooring, and other dangers to trespassers

FAQ

Why is the Xscape theater in Howell attracting trespassers?
The abandoned building has become popular on social media platforms like TikTok, with people seeking to capture content from the defunct venue. This trend has drawn increasing numbers of curious visitors despite the building's closed and unsafe status.
What dangers exist inside the abandoned theater?
Police warn that the deteriorated building contains multiple hazards including structural damage, unstable flooring, and other conditions that pose serious safety risks to anyone entering.
What should parents do about this trend?
Howell police are urging parents to educate their children about the dangers of trespassing at the Xscape theater and similar abandoned buildings, and to discourage participation in TikTok trends that involve entering unsafe structures.

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